What Are Nail Fungus Symptoms?

If you're worried about developing nail fungus infections, it could be helpful to know what some of the common symptoms are so you can watch for them. Unfortunately, if you haven't had nail fungus infections in the past, you may not be able to recognize when a nail fungus infection is first starting. Over time though, as the fungus grows, there are many symptoms that are difficult to miss.

One of the first nail fungus symptoms is a discoloration of the nail itself. Sometimes it will turn white or yellow, but it can also turn brown, or even look like you have a bruise or blood blister on your nails.

Another nail fungus symptom is nail thickness. If your nails start getting very thick, this is often a warning sign that you have a nail fungus infection.

Build up of debris or flaky "gunk" under or around your nail is another common nail fungus symptom that's hard to miss. This nail fungus symptom is often accompanied by a foul smell too, which makes it easier to identify.

If not discovered or recognized soon enough, a more advanced nail fungus symptom is flaking and crumbling of the nail. Sometimes the nail will fall completely off. Once in a while though, instead of getting crumbly the nail will simply become so thick that it hurts to wear your shoes if the nail fungus is on your toes.

Some people have higher risks of getting nail fungus than others. Athletes for instance, tend to get toe nail fungus frequently because their feet sweat alot inside their shoes when they're working out. Fungus thrive in warm, dark, moist environments and those are easily created inside tight fitting shoes.

If you don't clean and care for your feet well though, this can also put you at a higher risk of getting toe nail fungus. Women who use heavy nail polish also have higher risks, because the nail polish tends to create the dark environment the fungus thrives on. Nail polish also makes it so your nails are unable to breath normally, so moisture can build up below.

If you have health problems such as HIV or diabetes, you have a higher risk for getting nail fungus too because your body's immune system is weaker than normal. Likewise, anyone taking certain prescription medications for extended periods such as antibiotics or immune supressing drugs, all have higher risks of getting nail fungus infections.

If you're in one of the higher risk groups for nail fungus infections, by all means check for the signs and symptoms regularly. While you're doing that, be sure to clean and care for your nails well too. Keep the clipped short, and clean under and around them regularly.

Try not to wear shoes that are too tight, and select socks which allow better airflow such as those made of cotton. Let your feet breath regularly by taking off the shoes, and giving your nails some sunlight too.

After any workout, swimming or shower, be sure to dry your feet completely before putting on your shoes and socks. If you live or work in very moist environments, be sure to dry your feet and air them out as often as you can.

If you start noticing any symptoms of nail fungus though, talk to your doctor and start treating it as quickly as possible.